Abstract
Background: Abnormal vaginal discharge (AVD) is common in women during their reproductive life, and if it isn't treated well it may lead to severe complications as pelvic inflammatory disease. Objectives: to investigate the prevalence of abnormal vaginal discharge, its associated symptoms and the doctor diagnosed causes among women in different areas of Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out. Data was collected from Saudi women using a pre designed online disseminated questionnaire which include questions designed to fulfil the study objectives. Risk factors were determined using X-2 test. P value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: the total incidence of AVD was 47.7%. The color of discharge was clear white in 44.3%, cheesy whitish in 35.3% and yellow discharge in 20.5%. Fungal infection was found in 23.4%, protozoa in 22.7%, bacterial vaginosis in 11.5%, chemical irritation in 3.7% and chronic cervicitis in 1.2%. The majority of cases (41.7%) used medications and 28.5% used herbal remedies. Recurrence after treatment occurred in 31.1% of them. There was a significant correlation between AVD and age, marital status; dysuria and keeping the genital area dry (P < 0.05). Conclusion: In our study, the total incidence of AVD was 47.7%. The most frequently reported causes were fungal infection, trichomonas vaginalis and bacterial vaginosis. So, we recommend health education about the preventive measures and prompt treatment of the cases to prevent the recurrence.